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Ryan Von Klein Obituary

Ryan Jere

von Klein

Ryan Jere von Klein died unexpectedly, February 1, 2011, at the age of 32.

A funeral mass will be celebrated Friday, February 11, 2011, at 2pm at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Eugene with a reception to follow in the church hall.

Ryan was born March 18, 1978, in Eugene, Oregon to Larry and Carmen von Klein. He married Lauren Parfitt on July 26, 2003 in Portland, Oregon. He was blessed to have two sons, Kellen, age 5, and Connor, age 3.

He graduated from Sheldon High School in 1996 where he was a catcher for the baseball team. He began coaching baseball at Sheldon, as well as Marist and Thurston High Schools after graduation. He was looking forward to returning to Sheldon this spring to coach again.

He attended the University of Utah, where he was a member of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity. He graduated from the University of Oregon in 2003, where he continued his association with the fraternity and was a member of the Lane County Oregon Alumni Board.

Ryan worked for the family property management business before obtaining his real estate license to venture into residential real estate. He recently joined his father's business of commercial real estate and was excited about future opportunities.

He was an avid U of O sports fan. He recently attended the BCS game with his family. Ryan attended the Rose Bowl last year and previously attended football games at Tennessee, Michigan, Oklahoma, Wisconsin and many Pac 10 venues.

He was excited about the upcoming baseball season with the Ducks and was amazed at the new basketball arena. He held season tickets with his family to football, basketball, track and baseball.

Ryan deeply loved his family, especially his two sons. He touched so many people with his love, caring, passion for life, and humor. All who knew him will deeply and profoundly miss him.

Survivors include his wife, Lauren; his two sons: Kellen and Connor; his parents: Larry and Carmen, of Eugene, Oregon; his sister and her husband: Christine and Michael Clapp and nephews: Jacob, Austin, and Cooper of Washougal, Washington; and his brother, Larry Jr. of Eugene, Oregon. Also his father and mother-in-law, Bill and Pat Parfitt of Claremount, California; and sisters-in-law: Gillian Parfitt of Portland and Dana Parfitt of Lawrence, Kansas.

Inurnment at Resthaven Cemetery, Eugene, Oregon.

Remembrances to Sheldon High School Baseball, Eugene, Oregon. Musgrove Family Mortuary is in charge of the arrangements

Please sign the guest book at www.registerguard.com/legacy

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Eugene Register-Guard on Feb. 6, 2011.

Memories and Condolences
for Ryan Von Klein

Not sure what to say?





Mendy Johnson

March 10, 2011

Dear VK family,
I am praying you will have the peace of God as you walk down this new and unfamiliar road. Ryan was a very kind person and had the best smile. I hope you find joy and comfort in your memories of him. May God bless you and give you strength.

Phyllis Gilstrap

February 28, 2011

Larry & Carmen - I don't know if you remember me, but we worked together 25 years ago. I just want you to know how sorry I am for your loss. May the wonderful memories you have with your beloved son sustain you in the dark times. My thoughts & prayers are with you.

Jodee Chapman

February 24, 2011

You are dearly missed. Love to you and your sweet family.

Ben Kirsch

February 16, 2011

Ryan, you will be forever missed. I truly cherished our time we spent all those summers playing baseball. My thoughts and prayers to you and your family.

Ben Kirsch

February 16, 2011

Ryan, you will be forever missed. I enjoyed playing baseball with you and spending all those summers in Eugene together and most importantly having you as a friend. My thoughts and prayers to you and your family.

Danna Jim Ian McMenamin

February 16, 2011

Carmen and Larry, it was a great shock to hear about Ryan. We met five years ago he impressed me then and continued to do so,My trips to Eugene always included a meeting with Ryan to catch up on various things and have a laugh I and my son Ian will miss that tremendously.Lauren and Children Kellen and Conner may God wrap his arms around you and keep you in his care.

Daylene, Kyler, and McKenzie Koch

February 14, 2011

If I close my eyes I can go back 12 years and see you throwing a baseball to Kyler and cheering him on when he hit it to the 3rd floor at the Hilyard House. I can see you holding McKenzie just days after she was born. Those are the memories I will cherish forever. Until I see you again my friend.

Donna & Lee Herbert

February 13, 2011

Miles kept us from getting to know you better. You being on the west coast & us on the east coast. But it really didn't matter much, as we knew how wonderful you were. We remember how much you wanted to come stay with us & go to The Baseball Hall of Fame. Well Ryan, we hope that your finally going to get to visit there!

Godspeed to you Ryan, as you journey through a magnificent eternal life. However, you will be greatly missed here in this life.

Lauren, I was so happy to hear your voice. We are so very sad for you & Ryan's family. Please remember that difficult times bring everyone closer together. We are here for you & your family.

Love You, Aunt Donna (Parfitt) & Uncle Lee Herbert

Mary Guldager

February 12, 2011

I knew Ryan as a KRVM radio student at Sheldon High...he was a great kid and I am sure he was a great adult! He often bragged about his family...he loved you all very much...my thoughts and prayers are with you now...and my sincere condolences. I will always remember Ryan. Mary Guldager

Lewie Pettit, II

February 12, 2011

Carmen and Larry, How very sorry to hear about Ryan and your loss. My heart goes out to your family. May God bless and comfort your heart.

February 11, 2011

Ryan, our paths didn't cross often, but each time we met -- whether at a Derby Day party or those Friday afternoon Bible Study sessions -- you were a true delight. Your warmth, your humor, and your one-of-a-kind energy will be sorely missed, by me and everyone else.

Love still,
Kate Baker (Eugene and Walla Walla)

David Dyer

February 11, 2011

Von Klein Family -
Ryan was a good friend. We shared many fun times together. I remember like yesterday the day we went to shoot guns with Kelly(my first time) and Ryan and I bet who could hit a target. Well that day was full of laughs, like many that we shared together. I do not know if there is anything I can say that will help you with your loss, yet my prayers are with you. Ryan will be missed. Much love and prayers...

Justin Wilbur

February 10, 2011

Ryan~(VK) You are an inspiration; you helped many young players both on the field and off, professional mentor, father, friend and overall a genuine kind, caring and compassionate person. You will truly be missed, but you sure left a legacy, thank you!!!

When they start the game, they don't yell, "Work ball." They say, "Play ball." ~Willie Stargell, 1981

~~~Keep Playing My Friend~~~

Justin Wilbur

February 10, 2011

Ryan (VK)~ You are an inspiration; You helped many young players both on and off the field, professional mentor, father, friend and genuine kind, caring and compassionate individual. You will be missed, but you sure left a legacy, thank you my friend!

Remember...When they start the game, they don't yell, "Work ball." They say, "Play ball." ~Willie Stargell, 1981

~~~Keep Playing My Friend~~~

Cory Gabriel

February 10, 2011

Ryan - You will be missed. Your friendliness and good attitude were traits that i always appreciated about you. You are with us always. -Cory Gabriel

February 10, 2011

Ryan rest in peace. To the Clapp and Von Klein families, we are deeply saddened by Ryan's death. Just know we are here and will always be here for you. You are our family and we cherish you. Peace and comfort be with you.
Love, Tony and Brenda Coleman

Gilberto De La Cruz

February 9, 2011

wednesdays will never be the same at los dos amigos, we'll miss you pato jr.

Brady Kirkpatrick

February 9, 2011

You had me doing drills from the very first time I met you. You truly wanted me to be the best I could be. You are the reason that I am where I am today! I am going to play baseball in you name. Love you coach, RIP

Dan Eckman

February 9, 2011

In coelo quies est.

YITB, 1539

Steve Baack

February 9, 2011

My heartfelt sympathies for your entire family.

February 8, 2011

May you rest in peace. Jay Larsen, Brother In The Bond

Gabby Commons

February 8, 2011

I am deeply sorry about your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Patos!! with love and hugs from Gabby at los Dos Amigos..we love you Larry & Carmen..

February 8, 2011

I am so sorry for your loss. Craig, a Brother in the Bond.

February 8, 2011

David and Cheryl Dixon send our love and condolences to the family in their time of mourning. I'm blessed to have met Ryan and his beautiful family. Papa von Klein and Christine I love you and wish I could be there to embrace you. God Bless you and may he give you strength!

February 8, 2011

Lauren , I am sorry for your loss at this time. Although , you do not know me. I know your Aunt Donna and had the pleasure of meeting your Mom and Dad many years ago. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.
Carol Bennett Grauel
Yardley, Pa.

February 8, 2011

I remember with great fondness the work of Ryan at Sheldon KRVM. He was so very good on the air using his knowledge and love of sports to "do" play-by-play. He was a joy to work with. His enthusiasm for what he did was catching and we all enjoyed being around him. He and his classmates would get some great ideas for both radio and television and then it would happen. It was a wonderful time.
I am so very sad to learn of Ryan's untimely death. However, I cherish the wonderful memories I have of him as a student. A wonderful young man who gave his "all" to whatever he was doing.
Kathie Tippens Wiper

February 8, 2011

Ryan brought me so much joy as his teacher/advisor at KRVM. I never will forget his talent and enthusiasm for the play by play we did. He was such a wonderfully energetic and contributing member of the staff and in the classroom. It has been a joy for me to see Ryan grow into a successful man. I am so sad about this tragic loss but I cherish the wonderful memories I have of him at Sheldon KRVM.
Kathie Tippens Wiper

February 8, 2011

It makes me so sad to hear about Ryan. I worked with him at Prudential and John L Scott Real Estate. Ryan always had a smile on his face, and always had time to stop and talk to me. He was always one of my favorite young agents. I will miss our little chit chats. I will always remember him and his smile. I am so sorry for your loss. Barb Lundstrom

Tara Hiatt

February 8, 2011

Was so sad and shocked to hear about Ryan passing away. Much love and prayers to his wife Lauren and his young children. He was a wonderful guy!

Anna Lund

February 8, 2011

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. My heart aches for you Lauren, and his sons, as well as the rest of his family and friends. I remember Ryan through middle school and high school. He will be missed by many people. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time.

February 8, 2011

I was so sad to read about Ryan's passing. He was in my class at Willagillespie and I remember him very fondly. My condolences to you all. Diane George

Michelle Armijo

February 7, 2011

Ryan, my cousin I was only fortunate to meet once when you were a baby. But through your parents, my Aunt Carmen and Uncle Larry, I knew you to be a devoted daddy and husband. Even though we as a family, are scattered across the country, I still feel the heartache of losing a beloved family member. Please know I hold you and your dear family in my heart and prayers. I pray God's loving arms are holding you all very closely during this time and always.

Ashleigh Cox-Farleigh

February 7, 2011

Ryan, you were such a wonderful, caring person and I'm blessed to have known you. I am so grateful that we were able to catch up this last year. I keep waiting for an instant message to pop up with some sort of talk about Duck/Beaver baseball or football. You will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with all your friends and family.

Sandy Rivers

February 7, 2011

Dear Von Klein Family,
My son Josh called me and told me about Ryan. I am deeply sorry about your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Richard Lariviere, President, University of Oregon

February 7, 2011

I sit in my office today, heartbroken.

Yet again.

We have not recovered from the loss of our two students to a tragic car accident. We have lost two promising young people to a rogue wave on the Pacific coast. And now, Ryan Von Klein has been taken from us. On January 23 he sent me this message:

President Lariviere:
Last week before the UCLA game we briefly spoke coming out of the Club Room restroom and I was with my son, he was the one that was saying I was a “good daddy” and you went out of your way to let me know how lucky I am. I just wanted to thank you for that, you did not have to do it, but you did and it meant a lot to me. Thank you.
Ryan von Klein

To all the good daddies, to all who have had good daddies, in honor of Ryan—tell those whom you love, that you love them. The tissue-thin fabric that constitutes our lives is easily torn. Treasure each moment.

My condolences to Ryan’s wife, Lauren, his sons Kellen and Connor, his parents Larry and Carmen.

Pamela Garrett

February 7, 2011

Dear Larry and Carmen I don't know if you will remember me but my family lived near you on Windsor circle in Eugene. My Son Jeff hung around with Larry. My friend Lorri called to tell me and I was so shocked. My family all live here in Arizona. Jeff will be contacting Larry or your family soon. Please accept my deepest condolences, and God bless all of you. Pam Garrett.

Gabe Ritter

February 7, 2011

Ryan, you were one of my closest friends and I loved you like a brother. There are so many things I am going to miss about you. So many great memories, so many funny storys. Thanks for being always being there for me. I will never forget you.

John Lucier

February 7, 2011

Ryan was always looking for that little bit of extra inside knowledge on what was happening in Duckville. Maybe the greatest Duck fan of all time outside of his father...My prayers are with you von Klein Family.

John Wooten

February 7, 2011

Ryan, the world was a better place with you in it. Now heaven is a better place because you're in it. I'll be praying for your family.

February 7, 2011

I was deeply saddened and shocked to hear of Ryan's passing. I know that he will be missed greatly by a lot of people. Carmen and Larry are wonderful parents and it is the hardest thing in the whole world to lose a child. Christine--- hang in there. Love you all: Bobbi

Danny and Kim Martinez

February 7, 2011

We are shocked and deeply saddened to hear of Ryan's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you!

Adam and Christina Gudger

February 7, 2011

Dear Ryan,

You knew my husband Adam for some 20 years. You played baseball together as rivals and then became friends. I had the fortune of knowing you the past five years. You were always funny and as Adams says now, "Just a great guy." The two people who are missing out the most are Kellen and Connor. You were a great father and put them first. Very respectable. Everytime I think of their faces knowing they won't have you it just breaks my heart and Adam's too. I'm so sorry for that. Our son loved playing with Kellen and they were great buddies at school. We always had beer in the fridge for you when you came by our house and we always stopped by your spot at the Duck games to say hello. I appreciate the last conversation you and I had at Christmas time. Thanks for your support and your ear and I hope I gave you comfort too. Adam just talked to you and he is really "messed up" about the whole thing. We'll miss you buddy. The last thing Adam said to you was, "let's not lose touch." Goodbye Ryan

Stan manley

February 6, 2011

I will miss Ryan each time I step on the baseball field, although each time I think of him out there with me I will smile. Liz and I are were blessed to know you and count you as a friend. All of our best to your family. I wish that we could be there on Friday, but please know our hearts are with you all.

Renee Purdy-McKenna

February 6, 2011

Ryan was a great person and a loyal friend. He will be missed. Sending thoughts and prayers to his family.

Hollie Atkinson

February 6, 2011

I am so sorry for your loss. I will keep your family in my prayers.

Stacie Sisk

February 6, 2011

I miss you Ryan! I feel so fortunate to have got to see you right before you took the boys on your trip. I think of you often. Say hello to my special men up there. You always made me laugh. My thoughts and prayers are with your boys and parents! Stacie Sisk

Kate Werdebaugh

February 6, 2011

Todd and I are deeply saddened to hear of Ryan's passing. Our hearts go out to his entire family, and especially Lauren, Kellen and Connor.

Allison Lisk

February 6, 2011

I'm glad I knew you Ryan. May peace be with your family.
Love,

Brian Heinle

February 6, 2011

Just happened to see Ryan around Christmas. We had a great time catching up. Just like every other time I was around Ryan, he was engaging, funny, and passionate about sports. Thats how i will remember him. RIP RVK

February 6, 2011

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time.
Vern and Pamm Race

Kat Kalkofen

February 6, 2011

Ryan, you will most definately be missed by all who's lives you touched. My prayers go out to your family - may they find comfort during this difficult time. - Kat Kalkofen

Molly House

February 6, 2011

Ryan, your smile and energy will truly be missed. Even though we weren't close, it was always fun to catch up and see how you were doing. I wish the best to your family in this difficult time. I know your spirit will live on in the hearts of your friends. Take care buddy!

Tim and Kimberly

February 6, 2011

To the VK's, I am so terribly sorry for your loss. We all adored Ryan and really feel for your entire family and feel blessed to have spent time with him and am better people for knowing him as he is a good man and a great cousin. Ryan will always be in our thoughts and prayers.

Marty Martindale

February 6, 2011

Sometimes life seems so unfair but it sounds like Ryan lived every moment of his to the fullest. Thoughts and prayers!

Sandie & Bob Graham

February 6, 2011

Carmen & Larry and family we are very sorry for the loss of Ryan. You all are in our prayers.

Paula Nirschl

February 6, 2011

Christine....I am so sorry for your loss. I am keeping you and your family in my prayers. You are blessed to have so many great memories of Ryan!

S.H.S '96

February 6, 2011

Ode to our standard-bearer, raising the colors high
Spirit of our cause
Symbol of unity
We rally by your side.

...But if this man should fall, who will lift the flag and carry on?
We will.

Who will cheer in victory? Who will comfort in defeat?
We will.

Who will continue fighting for which he guarded?
Who will continue loving those he loved?
We will.

Who among you will honor his legacy?
We will. We ALL will.

David Fendrich

February 6, 2011

Ryan, I looked forward to growing old with you and sharing stories as we got older. So many things to say, but one for sure is GO DUCKS! You will never be forgotten in the Fendrich household, you sold me the perfect house! Love David and Family.

February 6, 2011

Ryan you will be forever missed in the Fendrich family. I looked forward to growing old with you and sharing stories with you. I will never forget you, Love David Fendrich and Family.

February 5, 2011

Ryan... my little brother you have no idea how much I will miss you! The love that we had can never be replaced. I am so happy that you, Kellen, Conner, myself, Mike, Jake, Austin and Coop had such a good time at the beach. I will always have so many special moments and will always think about all the talks that we had. I love you forever and ever! Love you Sis

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Funeral services provided by:

Musgrove Family Mortuary & West Lawn Memorial Park

225 South Danebo Ave, Eugene, OR 97402

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